THE latest weigh-in health check for tortoises and terrapins proved to be anything but a slow moving affair

For dozens of pets were seen during the British Chelonia Group 's event held at the Wilkinson store on The Rock, Bury, on Saturday.

The free health checks have been running for more than 25 years in the town.

Mr John Thorpe, the group's northern regional organiser, said: "The purpose of the event, which has been held twice yearly for the past 26 years without a break, is to ensure that the tortoises and terrapins brought along by their owners are in tip top shape.

"Hibernation is not an absolute requirement for a tortoise, but if they are to do so, certain precautions must be taken and the event sought to ensure that no harm comes to these much misunderstood pets.

"A total of 53 animals of various species were seen. This event and others like it around the country actually save lives by flagging up conditions which owners were not aware of."

Mr Thorpe added: "The day was judged a great success and the store was delighted with the turnout.Thanks go to the store management and to our colleagues from Pennine Vets for their time and expertise on the day. The next event will be in September on a date to be arranged."